The United States is reportedly considering restricting Ukraine’s access to the crucial Starlink satellite internet service, owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, as leverage in negotiations over critical minerals. According to three sources familiar with the discussions, U.S. officials have raised this possibility after Ukraine rejected an initial minerals deal proposed by the Biden administration.
Starlink’s Role in Ukraine’s Defense
Since the Russian invasion in 2022, Starlink has played a vital role in maintaining Ukraine’s military communications. The satellite-based internet service allows troops to coordinate operations, control drones, and maintain connectivity in war-affected regions. Without it, Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities could be severely impacted.
The issue resurfaced during a recent meeting between U.S. Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. One source, who requested anonymity, claimed that U.S. officials warned Ukraine that Starlink access might be cut off if an agreement on mineral resources was not reached.
“Ukraine runs on Starlink. Losing it would be a massive blow,” the source said.
The Disputed Minerals Deal
The U.S. is seeking access to Ukraine’s vast reserves of critical minerals, including graphite, uranium, titanium, and lithium—essential components for industries like defense, electronics, and electric vehicle production.
Zelenskiy has so far resisted U.S. demands, particularly a proposal requiring Ukraine to allocate 50% of its mineral resources to American companies in exchange for continued financial and military aid. He argues that the U.S. has not provided sufficient security guarantees in return.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has been vocal about Ukraine repaying the U.S. for its wartime support through mineral exports. This stance has created a rift between U.S. and Ukrainian leaders, with Trump recently referring to Zelenskiy as “a dictator without elections” following tensions over war-related negotiations.
Potential Consequences for Ukraine
Losing access to Starlink would be a major setback for Ukraine’s military strategy, particularly in its growing use of drones for surveillance and combat. Military experts believe that Ukraine and Russia are currently at parity in drone warfare, and a loss of reliable communications could tip the balance in Moscow’s favor.
Melinda Haring, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, emphasized Starlink’s importance: “It would be a game-changer. Ukraine’s military depends on it for everything from drone operations to artillery coordination.”
Negotiations Ongoing
Despite the disagreements, Zelenskiy stated that Ukrainian and U.S. officials are working on a new agreement, and Trump has expressed confidence that a deal will be reached soon. However, the potential use of Starlink as a bargaining tool has raised ethical and strategic concerns among policymakers.
Neither the White House, the U.S. Department of Defense, nor SpaceX has responded to requests for comment.
As the situation develops, Ukraine faces increasing pressure to balance its national interests with the geopolitical realities of relying on foreign military and technological support.
